What maximum ST/HR slope value is considered abnormal?

The maximum ST/HR slope value that is considered abnormal is 2.4 mV/beat/min. This measurement is critical in the context of exercise testing, particularly when assessing cardiovascular responses to physical stress. An elevated ST/HR slope indicates a significant change in the ST segment of an electrocardiogram (ECG) as heart rate increases, which can signal an underlying cardiac issue, such as ischemia.

In clinical practice, a slope value higher than 2.4 mV/beat/min is indicative of an abnormal response during exercise and may warrant further investigation into the patient's cardiovascular health. This threshold helps professionals determine the level of risk for cardiovascular events and guides ongoing treatment and monitoring strategies for individuals with potential heart conditions.

Choosing 2.4 mV/beat/min as the cutoff reflects an understanding of the relationship between heart rate and ST segment elevation and its implications for cardiac function during stress testing.